In a significant move towards enhancing agricultural productivity in Tanzania, over 500 farmers are set to benefit from specialized training provided by the Tanzania Official Seed Certification Institute (TOSCI). The training aims to raise awareness about the importance of quality seeds, empowering farmers to make informed choices and boosting overall agricultural output.
The initiative, spearheaded by TOSCI, is poised to have a transformative impact on the agricultural landscape of the country. By ensuring farmers have access to accurate information and skills, the program will not only guarantee food sufficiency but also create a surplus for exports, thereby bolstering the nation's economy.
Maulid Mwakatobe, TOSCI's Quality Assurance (seeds) Officer, emphasized the significance of the training sessions. He stated that farmers would learn how to verify the authenticity of their seeds, enabling them to differentiate genuine products from counterfeit ones. Moreover, the training equips farmers with the ability to educate others, thereby creating a ripple effect in the agricultural community.
What sets this program apart is its accessibility. Using something as simple as a mobile phone, be it a smartphone or a basic feature phone, farmers can verify the seed packages they purchase. Mr. Mwakatobe highlighted that this innovative approach provides farmers with essential details such as production dates and expiry information, empowering them to make educated decisions for their farming activities.
Martin Msongoma, TOSCI Officer in Charge of the Lake Zone, stressed the benefits of these workshops. He noted that educating farmers to verify the authenticity of seeds they intend to plant is crucial. This initiative not only safeguards farmers against fake seeds but also opens avenues for them to share their knowledge. Farmers can utilize their newfound expertise to teach others and even sell quality seeds, thereby further propagating the use of genuine agricultural inputs.
In a commendable gesture, the Minister for Agriculture, Hussein Bashe, has been lauded for promoting the active participation of women and young people in agriculture. Recognizing the pivotal role of quality seeds in transforming the sector, this initiative stands as a testament to Tanzania's commitment to sustainable agricultural practices and economic growth. With these training sessions, the nation takes a significant stride towards a future of thriving agriculture and enhanced food security.